Menu designs are arguably one of the more underrated wedding decor details. It seems a trivial aspect in the midst of a beautiful tablescape that is so artfully and painstakingly planned, but it’s really anything but. So much attention goes into what’s on the menu that an equal amount of detail should go into giving guests a sneak preview of what’s in store. Besides, no table setting is really complete without a styled menu to provide a finishing touch to its look.
The ways you can jazz up a traditional paper menu are endless—elegant calligraphy, watercolor hues, gold embossing, and hand-painted illustrations all can add a personal, beautiful touch. You can also play around with shapes to lend it a specific style—geometric triangles or hexagons create a modern vibe while a round outline isn’t without some whimsy. And don’t feel you have to be confined to paper—acrylics, paper bags, cutting boards, and even the table itself can offer a unique look.
But the table isn’t the only way to display the night’s fare—a large, single sign looks just as great and doubles as an unexpected decor statement. Try a wooden slab for some rustic goodness, a mirror for a regal effect, or a cascading banner topped with florals for a romantic feel. While opting for one menu is the perfect choice for a self-serve dinner—think food bar, food truck, or buffet style—that’s not to say it doesn’t work just as well for a sit-down dinner.
The unique wedding menu card ideas ahead promise to drum up some inspiration.
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Feature Something Blue
Photo by Kelley Williams
Looking for a particularly matrimonial way to incorporate your wedding menu into your reception table? Consider placing white menus on top of blue linens (or vice versa!) as a nod to the "something blue" tradition.
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Use a Romantic Color Palette
Photo by Stanlo Photography
Planning a romantic celebration? Channel the romance into a colorful display using the wedding menu as your centerpiece, as this couple did with beautiful pale pink flower arrangements surrounding a delicate menu featuring a butterfly illustration.
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Embrace Script
Photo by Molly Carr Photography
If you're having an elegant or formal affair, consider featuring an intricately detailed or embroidered wedding menu car that features a stunning script font.
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Combine Acrylic Menus With Pressed Flowers
Photo by Michelle Roller
These acrylic dinner menus feature hand-pressed wildflowers for a retro ‘70s vibe with a contemporary twist.
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Consider Copper and Rose Gold Details
Photo by Jessica Cooper
Copper and rose gold details shine with a metallic finish, but nothing looks quite as pretty as the sleek, modern menu taking center stage on a simple white plate.
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Choose a Material That Does Double Duty
Photo by Jenna Joseph Photography; Calligraphy by Twinkle and Toast; Event Design by Kelsey Rae Designs
This cutting board incorporates one of the wedding sphere’s hottest trends: Marble. Featuring gilded calligraphy, it doubles as both a creative menu, a plate charger, and a favor for guests to take home.
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Mix Black and Gilded Gold
Photo by Hazelwood Photo
Black may not be an immediate choice for paper goods, but when paired with gold scripted lettering, it’s all moody elegance.
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Engrave Raw Wood
Photo by Greg Finck
It’s back to basics with this simple menu design of raw wood, engraved lettering, and angular cuts. The look provides a contemporary edge, complementing the minimalist setting of organics and copper flatware.
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Don't Compete With Your Tablescape
Photo by Tiffany Roohani; Florals by The Little Branch; Tabletop Rentals by Casa de Perrin
Plum decadence and grand opulence are written all over this majestic tablescape. A humble disc-shaped menu with clever messaging adds simplicity without distracting from the contrasting layers of plates and rich linens. Whether you want a modern or minimalist look, you can find many options for wedding menu cards online.
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Look to Laser-Cut Menus
Photo by Jose Villa; Design by Amber Moon Design
Square leather laser-cut menus give a woodsy edge and rustic charm to this stunning reception tablescape.
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Get Inspired by Fresh Fruits
Photo by Mikaela Marie Photography
Fruits are big for tablescapes right now, so why not use them as menu inspiration? This creative piece takes its cues from a sweet peach, with a round shape, soft pink-orange watercolors, and artfully placed leaves.
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Look to Linens for a Romantic Vibe
Photo by Sawyer Baird
A linen menu with scrawling calligraphy adds a dreamy touch to this tablescape, where bohemian meets old-world romance in organic beauty and brass details.
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Go Big With Banner Menus
Photo by Autumn Cutaia Photography; Design by Whimsy Design Studio
A slender banner-style menu display gracing a wooden door and topped with a rose garland makes for one eye-catching statement piece.
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Opt for a Unique Tabletop Design
Photo by Lilly Red Creative
Equal parts eco-friendly and unique, a menu printed directly on a wooden table has a distinctly bohemian charm.
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Use Complementing Geometric Shapes
Photo by Heather Roth Fine Art Photography
Geometric shapes always make things more fun. A triangular menu brings a modern touch, complementing polygon plates.
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Add Tropical Details at a Destination Wedding
Photo by Katie Hoss
A jewel-tone print of palm leaves and king protea lends this menu a splash of tropical whimsy and Palm Springs vibes.
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Utilize an Easel
Photo by Laura Murray Photography; Design by Casa de Perrin
Easels are meant for works of art, and this wooden menu sign is just that. A swath of powdery-hued flora and hand-drawn designs come together for soft elegance.
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Select a Sophisticated Color Palette
Photo by Millie Hollman Photography
Shades of gray have a gorgeous effect in watercolor swirls, splashed with gold metallic for a hint of modern sophistication.
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Incorporate Natural Elements
Photo by Stephanie Sorensen
A tree stump transforms into a chalkboard for a hand-lettered woodland wedding menu. Paired with a weathered barrel and wild branches, it’s full of rustic charm. And can we just take a moment to revel in the idea of a wedding taco bar?
